The Artistic Soul

I'd like to gradually fold in some of my work stretching back over time. This was written in October 2007.

Centuries of warfare
have torn down the world
The rape of humanity:
Hatred unfurled

With widespread suffering
and desperate lament,
Hope is beaten down;
vengeance spent

But within caustic clashes
holding hostage countless lives
the artist selects his canvas
and with colors, hope revives

In a charred and smoking landscape
he swirls shades to uplift souls
his stream of inspiration restores:
shattered spirits become whole.

In no way do I wish to oversimplify the healing process after traumatic experiences, but I do want to speak to the power of artists as healers, whether they be painters, musicians, photographers, writers or sculptors. Their work brings sense back into chaos or simply allows us to sit with the questions, knowing we are not alone and feeling connected to a humanity that has triumphed over suffering.